You probably never think twice about buttoning a shirt, chopping veggies for gumbo, or scrolling through family photos on your phone—until an injury, surgery, or gradual changes make those simple things feel out of reach. That loss of ease can steal confidence and joy from everyday life. The great news? Occupational therapy (OT) at Riverbend Physical Therapy is designed exactly for this: helping you rebuild the skills to handle your daily routines independently again. Our skilled OTs in River Ridge, Metairie, Covington, and New Orleans focus on what matters most to you—getting back to meaningful activities without limits, whether that's gardening on the Northshore, returning to work, or just managing self-care with ease.

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What Actually Is Occupational Therapy?

While physical therapy targets strength, mobility, and pain relief, occupational therapy zeros in on how you live your life. We call them "occupations"—the everyday tasks that fill your time and give it purpose and satisfaction.We help you perform (or adapt) activities like:

Our goal: Empower you to do these things safely, confidently, and on your own terms—no matter your age or challenge.

Common Conditions We Help with Occupational Therapy

Our OT team in Metairie and River Ridge regularly supports people facing:

We tailor everything to Greater New Orleans lifestyles—whether you're navigating humid summers, uneven sidewalks in the French Quarter, or active family life on the Southshore.

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What to Expect During Your Occupational Therapy Sessions

Your plan is 100% customized based on your goals, but sessions often include these key elements:

1. Hands-on techniques: Gentle joint mobilizations, myofascial release, edema control, and desensitization for sensitive areas.
2. Custom adaptations & tools: We assess and recommend (or fabricate) aids like reachers, dressing sticks, elastic shoelaces, or modified utensils to make tasks easier right away.
3. Task simulation & training: Practice real-life activities in clinic—simulating cooking, writing checks, buttoning clothes, or getting in/out of a car—so skills transfer home seamlessly.
4. Strength, coordination & cognitive exercises: Targeted drills for fine motor control, grip, endurance, memory strategies, or energy pacing.
5. Home & environment tweaks: Advice on lighting, grab bars, rearranging spaces, or pacing techniques to prevent fatigue and boost safety.

Many clients notice meaningful progress in just a few visits, with strategies that stick for long-term independence.

Real Results from Real Patients

"A rotator cuff tear left me unable to lift my arms to style my hair or reach cabinets. After OT with our team, I'm back to my salon shifts and even painting my own house—pain-free!"— Carla B., Metairie

"Post-stroke, buttoning shirts and using silverware felt impossible. Adaptive tools and practice sessions gave me back my mornings independently—no more relying on family for basics."— Robert L., Covington

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Ready to Reclaim Your Daily Independence?

Don’t let limitations rob another moment from the activities and people you love. Occupational therapy isn’t about "fixing" you—it's about equipping you to live fully again.

Call (504) 603-6044 or book online for your OT evaluation at our River Ridge, Metairie, Covington, or New Orleans locations. Most insurance (including Medicare) covers OT with a referral, and many feel noticeable gains within the first 2–4 sessions.

Schedule Your OT Evaluation Today

We're here in the Greater New Orleans area to support you—one independent task at a time.

Riverbend Physical Therapy

Serving River Ridge • Metairie • Covington • New Orleans

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